Anglo Gallic Edward the Black Prince Aquitaine AD 1362-1372 Gold Leopard D’Or *Rare*
£6,750.00
Edward the Black Prince (1362-72), gold Leopard D’Or, (issued from 1362).
Obverse – crowned lion walking left, within tressure of eleven arcs, mullet in one spandrel, pierced quatrefoils in other spandrels and on cusps, beaded circles and legend surrounding, Latin legend and beaded borders surrounding with double pierced quatrefoil stops, initial mark cross pattee, EDxx PmOxx GnSxx REGISxx ANGLIExx PnCEPSxx AQITAnIE., the last An ligatured.
Reverse – six pellets in central compartment of floreated ornamental cross, lions over pierced quatrefoils in angles, all within cartouche, voided quatrefoils in spandrels, Latin legend and beaded borders surrounding, +XP’Cxx VInCITxx XPCxx REGNATxx XPCxx IMPERAT.
The abbreviated Latin legends translate as on obverse “Edward, first born of the King of England, Prince of Aquitaine” and on reverse “Christ conquers, Christ reigns, Christ commands.”
29mm, 3.50g Elias 140; cf. SCH 31; AGC 150; S.8121
Some field scuffs in parts, crisp detail and little wear. Rare.
With previous handwritten label.
Edward of Woodstock, latterly known as the Black Prince (1330–1376) was the eldest son and heir apparent of King Edward III of England and one of the most renowned military figures of the 14th century. Known for his leadership and bravery, Edward earned his title “the Black Prince” due to his fearsome reputation and distinctive black armour. He played a pivotal role in the Hundred Years’ War, achieving significant victories at the battles of Crécy (1346) and Poitiers (1356), where he captured the French King John II. Edward was also Prince of Wales in addition to Aquitaine.
Despite his military success, Edward’s life was marked by struggles with health, and he never ascended the throne; his death preceded that of his father, King Edward III, and so his son, Richard II, would eventually become King. Edward’s legacy is also tied to the Gold Leopard D’Or, symbolizing his influence in both military and economic spheres.
The coin’s name derives from its striking design, which features a leopard – the heraldic animal associated with Edward’s family. The coin was minted during a time when England sought to strengthen its economy and solidify the crown’s influence across Europe. This gold coin not only represented monetary value but also served as a symbol of the Black Prince’s authority and prestige.
The Gold Leopard D’Or was notable for its size and weight, making it an important part of international trade. It is a testament to Edward’s influence, not just as a warrior, but also as a key figure in the evolution of English currency. His coins remain valuable historical artefacts, providing a glimpse into the political and economic landscape of 14th-century England.
Out of stock